When it comes to ensuring the purity and quality of compressed gases, selecting the right filtration system is paramount. Among the various options available, the coalescing filter stands out as a superior choice for prefiltration of compressed gas.
But why?
Why is a coalescing filter the best choice for compressed gas prefiltration?
The key difference between a coalescing filter compared to a liquid particulate filter is that the coalescing filter, as well as removing particulate from the gas stream, it will also remove water (condensate), oil droplets and aerosols that liquid particulate 
filters will not. Therefore, the gas that passes downstream from the coalescing filter will not only be particulate free, but also liquid free, which will lead to the final, typically sterile, filter working far more effectively and with far lower operating costs, as the differential pressure that the filter runs at is far lower.
The key reason for this is that rather than flowing from out to in as a liquid particulate filter, coalescing filters flow from in to out. Therefore, particulate is removed in the same way, but the velocity of the gas drops significantly when it enters the centre of the cartridge, and this starts any entrained liquid to coalesce. However, when the liquid appears on the other side of the coalescing filter media, the liquid is not re-entrained because gas velocity is still low and therefore it drains to the bottom of the housing to be discharged.
In a liquid particulate filter the same process is happening, but the coalesced liquid ends up in the centre of the cartridge and is re-entrained into the gas and then passed onto the final filter leading to major blinding issues.
Coalescing filters are indispensable for ensuring the purity and quality of compressed air systems, offering a range of key benefits. Firstly, they excel at removing contaminants, including oil aerosols, water vapor, liquid droplets, dust, dirt, and other particulates, thereby ensuring air of superior cleanliness and dryness. This enhanced air quality is particularly crucial for industries like pharmaceuticals, food processing, and electronics manufacturing.
Moreover, by eliminating these contaminants, coalescing filters safeguard sensitive equipment such as pneumatic tools, machinery, valves, and more from wear, corrosion, and clogging, consequently extending their lifespan and reducing maintenance costs.
Ultimately, the use of coalescing filters leads to improved process efficiency, making them an essential component in all compressed gas applications.
Collaborating with a filtration company that understands the differences in the challenges you face when filtering compressed gases and can offer optimum solutions because of their years of experience and filtration knowledge, is key. Contact Porefiltration at enquires@porefiltration.co.uk to discuss these and any other liquid cartridge filter challenges that you may currently be facing.
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